Sony a7R
Announced October 16, 2013
PixelMeter The PixelMeter is our 1–100 aggregate of reviewer scores from trusted publications and creators. Weighted by source tier — not a raw average, and not PetaPixel’s own review.
Reviewer Consensus
Strong
Sony a7R delivers exceptional 36-megapixel full-frame image quality within a remarkably compact and lightweight magnesium body. Although it excels for landscape and still photography, the camera is hampered by a loud mechanical shutter, sluggish autofocus, and limited battery life.
Weighted from 29 reviewer scores
Pros
- Compact and lightweight build quality
- High-resolution 36MP full-frame sensor without an optical low-pass filter
- Excellent electronic viewfinder and tilting screen
- Versatile lens compatibility via adapters
- Advanced features including focus peaking, Wi-Fi, and NFC
Cons
- Short battery life with in-camera charging limitations
- Slow autofocus performance
- Loud and disruptive mechanical shutter
- Limited selection of native FE-mount lenses
- Shutter shock issues affecting image sharpness
- Launch price $2,299 (USD)
- Sensor 36.4MP Full-Frame CMOS
- Video 1080p 59.94p
- Burst 4 fps electronic 4 fps mechanical
What the Reviewers Say
All 29 expert reviews, weighted into the PixelMeter score.
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- DPReview 82/100
When it comes to getting high image quality from a small, full-frame camera, the Sony a7R has it wrapped up.
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The age of the fully-featured, full-frame mirrorless camera is finally here -- and boy, what a duo of cameras kickstart the revolution.
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If you’re looking for maximum image quality in a minimum body size, this is the camera for you.
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As I have demonstrated in this review, the shutter shock exhibited by the camera is significant and can drastically impact images at different shutter speeds, depending on what lens / focal length is being used.
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Just like the Nikon D800, the Sony a7R can capture very usable low light images in both low and high ISO up to ISO6400.
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[T]his camera is so much fun to use, and here's the best part: the price point on these things is ridiculously low for what you're getting.
- The Verge 8.3/10
The a7 and a7R are those cameras, and for most people and most uses, they easily replace a DSLR.
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The Sony Alpha A7R is a feature packed camera, with a high resolution 36 megapixel full-frame sensor, full HD video, built in Wi-Fi and NFC, and a high resolution electronic viewfinder as well as a tilting screen, all packed into a compact metal weather sealed body.
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The Sony A7R is the most revolutionary camera of 2013, bringing 35mm full-frame, interchangeable lens shooting to the masses both in terms of cost and size.
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The Alpha 7R is a great camera, but it’s not without its flaws. The autofocus is a little slow, and the shooting speed is not as high as that of some of its rivals.
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The Sony Alpha 7R is a full-frame mirrorless camera with an amazing 36-megapixel image sensor.
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Both the Sony A7 and the A7R are fantastic innovations. But for now, the system isn't quite complete enough.
- CNET 8.2/10
While it’s easy to be tempted by the cheaper sibling, I think the noticeably superior image quality of the A7R makes a compelling case for spending the extra money if you’ve got it.
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The Sony A7 and A7R are pretty close to bloody excellent, but there's just one problem, and it's something which applies to most mirrorless camera manufacturers.
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The camera charges via USB, so I was able to easily recharge the camera with an extra battery. Unfortunately, the Sony a7R cannot immediately work from the USB port, you must definitely wait for the main battery to charge.
- Photo Review 8.7/10
Like its siblings, the α7R is designed for experienced photographers and its price tag dictates that most potential purchasers will be well-heeled enthusiasts and professional photographers who are attracted by the compact body size, high resolution and large image sensor.
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Fantastic ability and design come together to make a truly stellar mirrorless camera – with a price tag to match.
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If you're shooting a model or something else that isn't moving much, this is a great camera and lens combination. More than just megapixels, the sensor also has no optical low-pass filter.
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As a tool, I like the A7r and it has turned in some great shots. I appreciate its light weight, the outstanding integral viewfinder and the built-in grip.
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To me, this is the best Full-Frame camera for Landscape Photography. Sure, the D810 is better in terms of image performance and weather sealing, but the weight of this camera alone makes up for it.
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[W]ith the exception of sports photographers, I can't think of anyone who'd be unhappy with this one.
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I admit it, I love the A7R. Even though my list of grumbles is way longer than my list of plus points, it all boils down to the fact that the image quality of the A7R is simply awesome.
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If you're a landscape photographer, you want to travel lighter because certainly the body is way lighter than something like a 5D Mark III, you can do that with this camera and get amazing image quality. Make sure you're bringing along a couple extra batteries.
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In the end I concluded that the results, while marginally better from the higher res A7r sensor, were not enough to justify my using this camera instead of my Leica M 240.
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If you love full frame for stills and want the most adaptable lens mount to use all your lovely old lenses on, the A7R is the best you can get. If you just want a lovely cinematic video mode then the A7R is somewhat disappointing.
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For landscapes, fine art or anywhere you want the maximum resolution, the a7R is absolutely the ticket.
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The Sony a7R certainly brings high-resolution digital cameras within the reach of photographers.
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When Sony first announced the a7r, many photographers felt it was going to be a game changing camera.
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Anybody thinking about getting into the world of mirrorless cameras, or even mid-range DSLR’s, should take the Sony A7r and A7 into serious consideration. If you by chance have a NEX-7 then this upgrade is really really desirable since your glass can migrate with you.
